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In Washington, D.C., on Saturday, June 2, 2001, Washingtonians and visitors alike can experience Georgetown as a divided town of conflict, with southern sympathizers pitted against the Union Army, which occupied the waterside town between 1861-1865. This open-to-the-public event lasts from 10 AM until 4 PM and is organized by the National Park Service to celebrate Georgetown's 250th Anniversary featuring authentic presentations and period re-enactors. Experience a war field hospital at Lock 3 along the C & O Canal with surgeons attending wounded soldiers, while at Tudor Place observers can eavesdrop on Robert E. Lee's relatives recounting the 19th century funeral arrangements for two deceased family members who were hanged in Tennessee by the Union Army. Then meet members of the 54th Massachusetts stationed along the waterfront and hear the story of how African American troops trained along Potomac River at Mason Island. Abraham Lincoln plans to make a guest appearance to review the neighborhood troops patrolling the streets and drill areas, and a wet plate photographer will also be on hand to capture the images with authentic, original camera equipment. Furthermore, local historians will lend a hand conducting complimentary walking tours throughout the town to shed light on how the war impacted the community.

Civil War time music is another major focus off this one-day festivity. Mount Zion Church in Georgetown will present period music and The Wild Cat Regiment Band, a regiment Civil War band of the 105th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry (with authentic, original instruments) will demonstrate their skills throughout the day, culminating with a one-hour concert at Lock 3 along the canal. Spectators are invited to bring a blanket or lawn chairs to enjoy the regiment's performance of ballads, marches, quicksteps and overtures, which are highly representative of the public concerts in the 1800s.

For those who dare, mule drawn boat trips along the C & O Canal will be offered at 11 AM, 1:30 PM and 3 PM. Conducted by official soldiers, who will share their stories of the War's impact on the canal, visitors will get a firsthand experience of the conflict after they are seized by Union Army and given orders to transport wounded soldiers to nearby hospitals.

A self-guided Civil War walking tour of the neighborhood, highlighting important historic sights in Georgetown is available at the National Park Service Office at C & O Canal, 1057 Thomas Jefferson Street NW, which is open Thursday-Sunday from 8:30 AM-5 PM. The June 2nd day is free of charge to the public and both Dumbarton House, 2715 Q Street, NW (202) 337-2288 and Tudor Place, 1605 32nd Street NW.

For more information on Georgetown's 250th Anniversary celebrations, contact Kathy Kupper, Park Ranger at the C& O Canal 202.653.5190.

Edited by Stacey Brown

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